What are dental payment plans?

Dental payment plans are special payment arrangements that make it easier for people to pay for dental care. Instead of paying a large amount all at once, the patient makes installment payments until the balance is paid in full.

Harold Pollack of the Washington Post says 85 million Americans were without dental insurance as of 2013. Dental payment plans allow the uninsured to access needed dental care and make payments over time. Plans administered directly by dental offices usually do not come with financing charges; however, a patient may need to pass a credit check to qualify. There are also third-party plans that pay for preventive care and necessary dental treatments.